This alert marks the second such notification campaign by the tech giant this year, following a similar alert sent to users in 92 countries in April.
Apple has recently issued warnings to iPhone users in India and 97 other countries about potential “mercenary spyware attacks” that could compromise their devices. This alert marks the second such notification campaign by the tech giant this year, following a similar alert sent to users in 92 countries in April.
Details of Apple’s warning
Apple’s warning message to users is direct and alarming: “Apple detected that you are being targeted by a mercenary spyware attack that is trying to remotely compromise the iPhone associated with your Apple ID.” The company emphasised the sophistication of these attacks, which are likely targeting specific individuals due to their identity or occupation.
The alert urged recipients to take the warning seriously: “This attack is likely targeting you specifically because of who you are or what you do. Although it’s never possible to achieve absolute certainty when detecting such attacks, Apple has high confidence in this warning — please take it seriously.”
Recommended precautions
In response to these threats, Apple advises users to activate Lockdown Mode on their iPhones and avoid opening links or attachments from unknown senders. Lockdown Mode is a feature designed to protect against such sophisticated attacks by restricting certain functions on Apple devices, such as unsolicited FaceTime calls and email attachments, effectively creating a more secure environment.
This measure represents one of the most significant steps taken by a major tech company to combat the spyware industry, which has the capability to infiltrate devices without any action from the victim.
Nature of mercenary spyware attacks
Apple’s support page details the complexities of mercenary spyware attacks. These attacks are vastly more sophisticated than regular cybercriminal activity and consumer malware. The attackers employ significant resources to target a very small number of individuals, making detection and prevention exceptionally challenging. Such attacks cost millions of dollars and often have a short shelf life, further complicating the efforts to counteract them. Apple notes that the vast majority of users will never be targeted by these attacks.
Historical context and Government use of Spyware
In April, Apple sent a similar alert to users in India and 91 other countries, warning them about potential exposure to Pegasus-type “mercenary spyware.” Governments have historically used spyware to monitor human rights activists, journalists, and opposition leaders. Many of the recent security breaches affecting Apple users have been attributed to the Israel-based NSO Group.
Apple’s response and bounty programme
Acknowledging the evolving nature of spyware threats, Apple has announced its commitment to continuously improve Lockdown Mode. The company has also pledged up to USD 2 million to security researchers who report vulnerabilities in the feature, underscoring its dedication to maintaining user security.
By issuing these warnings and enhancing protective measures, Apple aims to safeguard its users against the growing threat of mercenary spyware, ensuring their devices remain secure in an increasingly dangerous digital landscape.
Source:financialexpress.com